Ukraine is recovering from a severe Russian missile and drone attack on its capital, Kyiv, which occurred overnight on July 7, 2026. According to Ukrainian authorities, Russia launched 68 missiles of various types, including Iskander-M ballistic missiles, 3M22 Zircon and Oniks cruise missiles, along with 351 drones. The strikes hit residential buildings and infrastructure, resulting in at least 22 deaths and dozens of injuries.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned citizens on July 5 that intelligence reports indicated Russia was preparing a large-scale attack. He stated, "This reflects Putin's mindset — immediately after the US Independence Day and ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara. Russia wants to cause even more harm and kill people."

Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for Ukraine's Air Force, attributed the scale of the attack partly to a shortage of Patriot missile defense systems. Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said, "Because the enemy cannot achieve its goals on the battlefield, it is increasingly directing ballistic missiles at residential buildings and killing civilians."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the urgent need for additional air defense systems for Ukraine, noting that the issue will be discussed at the upcoming NATO summit. Experts suggest that Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to intimidate European and NATO allies, conveying the message that "No matter what you do, Putin will attack anyway."

Sources